Disasters Don’t Plan Ahead. You Can.

Will you be ready if disaster strikes? Disasters, or devastating events-natural or human-generated, certainly can disrupt daily life. National Preparedness Month, held annually in September and sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), is a good reminder that we need to be ready to respond to emergencies. Adversity can strike at any time. There is no time like the present to prepare for emergencies.

How? Focus on making a standing plan for family readiness! A standing plan is one that you and your family have developed in the event of disasters. For most people, the prime goal is knowing that all family members are safe and as secure as possible against harm.

Need some help? Ready.gov has information to help you with that critical “what do we do in case of an emergency” conversation with children as well as seniors or any family member with special needs. The Ready.gov website contains a wealth of information to get you started including downloadable checklists and other publications as well as printable posters. Anyone can download the materials for free!

For instance, some disasters strike without warning. Have you thought about supplies you would need the most? Ready.gov supports the use of checklists as a good way to help you make it through an immediate disaster period.

Are you a pet owner? Ready.Gov has a unique brochure containing information for pet owners and suggestions for proactive pet emergency preparedness. Have you ever considered evacuating in the car with your animals?

Additionally, inadequate insurance coverage on a family home or properties can lead to major financial losses. NOW is the time to plan, document, and insure your property as well as prepare digital copies of your important financial information. One thing to keep in mind: FLOOD INSURANCE is a pre-disaster insurance protection program. Flood damage is not usually covered by typical homeowners insurance. Check your policy. Do not make assumptions.